Leek Gratin Soup

Leek Gratin Soup: A Savory Delicacy with a Touch of Elegance

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the culinary world of refined soups! Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for a gratin leek soup, a delicious adaptation of the famous onion soup. This recipe combines the simplicity of ingredients with the richness of flavors, offering you a comforting and savory meal that will delight any palate.

A Brief History of Leek Soup

Leek soup has deep roots, inspired by Mediterranean culinary traditions. Leek, the main ingredient, is known for its delicate flavor and crunchy texture. It is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin C, iron, and magnesium, providing numerous health benefits, from supporting the immune system to improving digestion. This soup will not only warm your soul but will also add a touch of elegance to your table.

Ingredients

- 2 fresh leeks
- 1 Knorr beef cube
- 1 liter of water (or 1 liter of beef broth for a more intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 20 cl of dry white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slices of whole grain bread
- 150 g of grated cheese (or Gruyère cheese for an authentic taste)

Step-by-step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the leeks
The first thing you need to do is wash the leeks well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities, as leeks can harbor sand between their layers. After washing, chop them finely, both the white and green parts.

Step 2: Sauté the leeks
In a deep skillet, melt 30 g of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This will intensify the flavor of the leeks, adding a sweet note to your soup.

Step 3: Add the flour
Once the leeks have softened, sprinkle the two tablespoons of flour over them and mix well to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the flour turns golden, which will help thicken the soup.

Step 4: Flavor the soup
Pour the white wine into the skillet and mix vigorously, allowing the steam to evaporate. Add the Knorr cube dissolved in warm water, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Cover the skillet and let the soup simmer over medium heat for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Prepare for gratin
While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to 200°C. Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf and taste to adjust the seasoning. If the soup is too acidic, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and gratin
Divide the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of whole grain bread on top of each bowl and generously sprinkle with grated cheese. Put the bowls in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Serving

Once the soup is gratinated, remove the bowls from the oven (be careful, they are very hot!). Let them cool slightly, then serve warm. I recommend dipping your bread into the soup while eating to savor every delicious bite. This soup pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh green salad.

Practical Tips

- Flour: You can experiment with whole wheat flour for a richer taste and denser texture.
- Wine: Choose a quality dry white wine, as it will significantly influence the flavor of the soup.
- Variations: You can add diced potatoes or carrots to make the soup heartier. Additionally, you can replace the cheese with feta cheese for a salty note.
- Nutrition: A serving of gratin leek soup has about 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used. It is a healthy choice, rich in vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen leeks?
Yes, you can use frozen leeks, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

2. What else can I add to the soup?
You can try adding sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or even croutons for added texture.

3. How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Sure! Replace the Knorr beef cube with a vegetable cube and use water instead of beef broth.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Start preparing this gratin leek soup full of flavors and health, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!